Close-up of a suit of medieval armor, featuring intricate designs and patterns etched into the metal, with rivets and overlapping plates on the shoulders.

“Etsi ambulem per vallem umbrae mortis, non timebo mala, quoniam tu mecum es.”

(Psalm 23:4)

About
CDE

Christus Dominus Est is a Roman Catholic fraternal organization dedicated to imitating Christ in order to grow as young, virtuous men. Whether being called to the priesthood, fatherhood, or any other vocation, there is no doubt of a treacherous pilgrimage that lies ahead.

Young men in the modern world face a growing crisis, bombarded by the allure of filth, pride, and countless vices that promise fulfillment but leave only emptiness. The culture encourages indulgence, selfishness, and a rejection of discipline, leading many down a path of confusion and spiritual isolation. In contrast, CDE stands as a stronghold of traditional Catholic identity—grounded in truth, virtue, and brotherhood. It calls young men to reject the false promises of the world and instead pursue holiness, courage, and the timeless values of the Faith. It is a necessity for young men to stand and take up their cross alongside Christ and venture through the long and narrow path toward the gates of heaven. As brothers, we must learn to avoid the snares that lay ahead and recognize the snare in which we place ourselves. Just as St. Joseph, we must remain humble, pure, and charitable, even amongst doubt, confusion, and frustration in God’s will.

"Let us allow ourselves to be 'infected' by the silence of St. Joseph. We need it greatly in a world that is often too noisy, that does not favor recollection and listening to the voice of God."

- Pope Benedict XVI

A classical painting depicting a young woman handing a candle to an older man surrounded by three women, illuminated by candlelight.

Knighthood, Manhood, and Brotherhood.

Statue of Jesus Christ crucified on the cross inside a church.

    • Growing in devotion to the Sacred Heart of Christ.

    • Reflecting on the Holy Family.

    • Growing in devotion to St. Joseph.

    • Spiritual + Corporal Works of Mercy.

    • Praying the Roman Breviary - Giving your day to God from the beginning until the end. 

    • Frequent use of the Sacraments - Holy Communion + Confession.

    • Praying the Rosary.

  • What is it? The investiture is the action of formally knighting a member into Christus Dominus Est. The investiture of a knight is a solemn and ceremonial event that marks a sincere commitment to manhood, brotherhood, and knighthood. The knight swears an oath to uphold the seven laws and virtues of St. Joseph and to serve their community and God with integrity. 

    What are the requirements?

    • Discernment: A man must go throughout the spiritual season of his life discerning if this is what God is calling him to do.

    • Obedience: A man must show obedience to the laws of St. Joseph.

    • Love for Christ: A man must demonstrate that he is willing to put others before him, reflecting Christ’s love in all that he does. He must be willing to become selfless, pure, and humble.

    • Must be 15yrs or older.

  • Time Agnum is a sword that represents the strength and sovereignty of God. Although it rests lightly upon the shoulders of a man when being knighted, it still bears the solemn weight of its divine authority.


    The phrase Fear the Lamb is in fact an odd phrase. Why would anyone fear anything as innocent and as helpless as a lamb? Yet it is the Lamb of God who we fear— not out of dread, but out of awe and honor. A true and pure sacrifice, given by the Father for the salvation of the world. A lamb that remained strong even while being devoured by a pack of ferocious wolves.


    In short, this is a major part of Christus Dominus Est—to become a man of God who is willing to remain in Christ, just as Christ remains in him. When the world spits in your face and crucifies you, remain strong just as Christ remained strong! Find your strength in Him!

The Seven Laws and Virtues of our Patron Saint.

  • The Seven Laws of St. Joseph


    • A man must remain pure in order that he may reflect the purity of God

    • A man must remain humble and control what he says and thinks 

    • A man must recognize and contemplate the need for the imitation of Christ in the family

    • A man must offer up sacrifices for those that he loves, and remain silent in doing so. He must put every bit of strength he has in order to aid those in need

    • A man must take responsibility for his actions. He must accept that he is imperfect so that he may strive to grow in Christ, who is perfect

    • A man must put God before all so that when the time comes, he is willing to die for Christ, just as Christ has given up his life for him

    • And lastly, a man must forgive, just as Christ has forgiven him

  • The Seven Virtues of St. Joseph

    • Humility - Understanding who you are in the eyes of God.

    • Fortitude - Firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. 

    • Charity - Seeing others through the eyes of God.

    • Diligence - An attitude exhibiting constant and earnest effort to accomplish what has been undertaken, regardless of the circumstances surrounding a person.

    • Chastity - Remaining pure of mind and pure of heart

    • Temperance - Moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods.

    • Patience/Mercy - The compassion in our hearts for another person's misery, a compassion which drives us to do what we can to help him.